If you find yourself involved in a St. Louis car accident in a construction zone, get in touch with an experienced St. Louis construction zone injury lawyer as soon as possible.
Every year, thousands of car accidents happen in construction areas. Part of it has to do with the fact that construction zones are often located on high-traffic highways. However, several other factors contribute to the high accident rate in these areas. This article will consider six of the most common reasons auto collisions occur in construction zones.
Narrow Lanes
One of the main reasons why auto collisions occur in construction zones is narrow lanes. When construction crews work on a road, they typically need to close off one lane to do their work safely. This can often lead to traffic congestion and makes it more difficult for drivers to avoid accidents. Additionally, when roads are under construction, they are often more bumpy and uneven, which can also contribute to accidents.
Improper Merging
Another common reason why auto collisions occur in construction zones is improper merging. When lanes are closed off, drivers often wait until the last minute to merge into the open lane. This can lead to sudden braking and swerving, increasing the risk of an accident. In addition, drivers who fail to merge properly may block traffic and cause other drivers to become impatient and take risks.
Speeding
Drivers may be in a hurry to get through the construction zone, or they may not realize that the speed limit is lower in these areas. This can lead to serious accidents, as drivers may not have enough time to react to hazards or slow down workers.
In addition, speeding reduces the amount of traction a vehicle has on the road, making it more difficult to stop or maneuver around obstacles.
Distracted Driving
With so much activity going on, it can be easy for drivers to take their eyes off the road. Maybe they’re looking at the workers or the equipment, or perhaps they’re just daydreaming about being done with the drive. Some could even be talking on the phone, texting, or adjusting the radio and may not see hazards until it’s too late. Whatever the reason, distracted driving is one of the most common causes of accidents in construction zones.
Rubbernecking
Rubbernecking is another common cause of car accidents in construction zones. Drivers who slow down or stop to look at accidents or other roadside attractions are more likely to be involved in rear-end collisions. In addition, rubbernecking can cause traffic jams which can lead to frustration among drivers, thereby increasing the risk of accidents.
Improper Signage
Construction zones can be confusing for drivers, especially if they’re not well-marked. Poor signage or markings can make it difficult to tell where you should and shouldn’t be driving, which can lead to accidents.
These are just a few reasons why auto collisions occur so frequently in construction zones. By understanding these risks and taking steps like watching out for debris, merging properly, maintaining a safe following distance, staying focused on the road, and obeying the posted speed limit, drivers can help make these areas safer for everyone involved.
St. Louis Construction Zone Injury Lawyer
Auto collisions can happen anywhere and at any time. If you find yourself involved in a St. Louis car accident in a construction zone, get in touch with an experienced St. Louis construction zone injury lawyer at The Hoffmann Law Firm 24/7. We have a proven track record of assisting victims of St. Louis car accidents for over 20 years. Call us today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced attorney.